Award-winning filmmaker Carlos Carvalho (47) died a week after an accident while shooting a game lodge in South Africa. He was tragically injured when a giraffe attacked him while he was getting a close shot of the animal.

Carvalho had been shooting the majority of a series about a British family who have set up a game lodge in South Africa. While he was attempting a closeup the animal became “inquisitive” and headbutted him sending him 16 feet in the air and causing massive head injuries.

After the attack, Carvalho was airlifted to Johannesburg’s Milpark Hospital. He died  from the multiple injuries. The announcement of his death was made via a statement on the film crew agency CallaCrew’s Facebook page:

“It is with a very sad heart that we have to announce the passing of Carlos Carvalho‚ one of our favourite DOP’s. Carlos was filming a feature at Glen Afric and had a fatal run in with a giraffe on set. He was flown to Milpark Hospital but succumbed to his injuries 20:50 last night. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Carlo’s family and friends during this very sad time. He will be sorely missed.”

https://twitter.com/johnjhargrove/status/992961666802442240

The animal would not be killed in retribution, as it happens in the zoo and circus, when they  attack people.